TSA Is Not Amused by Active Vibrators in Carry-On Bags

We All Have Our Baggage but It’s Not Supposed to Vibrate.

In an unintentional reminder to remove batteries from all potentially embarrassing devices before going through a TSA checkpoint or securing luggage within the cabin of a plane, Instagram model Amanda Diaz Rojas found herself in a deeply uncomfortable situation when her suitcase started vibrating.

All was well until just before takeoff when Dexerto.com reported that “strange” noises started to emerge from her overhead compartment. Depending on the source of the noise, it could warn of danger to passengers and crew, which is why Diaz Rojas was ordered off the plane so she could open her luggage for visual inspection.

In a TikTok video that has gone viral since the incident, Diaz Rojas can be seen retrieving her silver metal briefcase, opening it, exiting the plane, placing her luggage on the ground, and as discreetly as possible. Once settled, she reached into the case to shut off a pink vibrator and hide it under her clothing. Her second, white vibrator, was not activated.

The footage was captured by a friend of the Instagram influencer and shows her repeatedly covering her face while dealing with the unplanned attention. Although clearly mortified, Diaz Rojas seemed able to see the humor. The aircrew that escorted her off the plane and stayed with her as she proved she was no danger to the flight can be heard laughing heartily throughout the process.

Once the vibrator was deemed to be no threat, Diaz Roja, who has approximately 250,000 followers, was permitted to reboard the plane. The video, which was uploaded to TikTok has garnered many sympathetic responses about similar situations and recommendations for battery removal before getting on a plane in the future.

Enough time has passed for Diaz Roja to get in on the joke. Her friend’s video clip, which has seen more than 12.6 million viewer visits, quotes the model in a caption. “When the whole plane wants to know why your suitcase vibrates.”

According to TSA guidelines, vibrators are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, although the final decision is up to the TSA officer at the screening point. Travelers with destinations including India, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Maldives, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates should be aware that those countries have restrictions on adult toys.